Cement and concrete are two different things. Cement is only a part of concrete as there are other ingredients needed to form this substance. The pointers listed below give you an idea on cement, concrete, cement mixers, and concrete batch plants.

What is cement?

Cement in general is a binder. This substance sets and hardens independently and helps bind other materials together. The Romans used this specifically to describe masonry that is similar to modern concrete made from crushed rock with burnt lime as its binder.

Cement as used in construction is either hydraulic or non-hydraulic. Hydraulic types harden due to hydration. Chemical reactions in hydration occur independently of the mixture’s water content. As this is the case, the mixture hardens even during certain circumstances. This means the mixture can harden when underwater or when continuously exposed to wet weather. Non-hydraulics, on the other hand, must be dry to maintain its strength.

Getting familiar with a cement mixer

This machine usually has three parts: motor, rotating drum, and chute. This machine combines cement, sand, gravel, and water to produce concrete. The device spins the said materials inside to produce a homogenous mixture. This is why many think of the machine as a concrete mixer.

Size matters

Cement mixer sizes vary depending on concrete amount required. Construction managers often decide which size is proper for the upcoming task. For example, small sized building requirements call for smaller machines, while larger volumes require more sophisticated machinery. Small home construction demand the smaller versions. This happens because the machines produce enough concrete to complete the job on time. Some home renovations can also require this machine for building or improving structures.

If you are wondering when large-scale cement mixers come to play, just look at buildings in cities. Skyscrapers especially needed huge machineries to complete the job. These machines work in line with professional contractors so they can use the mixture before it dries out.

What are concrete plants?

Concrete plants refer to industrial buildings with machines or machines alone that mix different ingredients to form concrete. Ready mix plants and central mix plants are its main types. A ready mix variant combines all ingredients except water. A ready mix truck transports the produced mixture and adds water during transportation on to a job site. A central mix plant is one that combines parts or all stated components (including water) at a central location. Job sites then get a complete product once they have their delivery.

When comparing these options, the central mix type offers a better option. Mixing in a central location ensures uniformity. Before you give up readily on ready mix types, note that these become central mix with the addition of a cement mixer.

Similarities

Modern versions of both concrete plants employ computer-aided controls. The feature helps in producing fast and accurate measurements in placing ingredients. These controls also ensure precise coordination and operation safety.